The name Fred Astaire has become synonymous with dancing perfection. The star of more than 30 musical films is widely regarded as the most influential dancer in American entertainment. If it had been left to the Hollywood executive who gave him his first screen test, however, the world would never have known of Astaire’s talents.

The now-forgotten reviewed summed up Astaire’s talents with these words, “Can’t act. Slightly bald. Can dance a little.”

Read more harsh words from critics.

Read more fun stories from Hollywood.